Is there a web site, in a similar vain to the Friends Reunited one, that allows you to find people you used to work with, instead of those you went to school with

Asks pascal

A. Since the launch of Friends Reunited website and its huge popularity it has had many imitators, a couple of similar sites for tracking down old school mates include Classmates and Your School Reunion - but none has really tackled the problem of finding your old workmates, although Friends Reunited plans to launch such a service shortly.

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That is until now, a new website called the P.45 Club has recently launched and will provide a directory of businesses in the UK, and the facility for former and existing employees to catch up with each other.

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Q. How big is the directory, it must be huge

A. Well so far it isn't that big (although P45 has not given any indication of how big its current directory is) because it relies on those that register on the site to give information on their former company i.e. type of business, address etc. This means that it will take quite a while for the site and the whole concept to get off the ground - and some time to know whether the site will be a success or not. Friends Reunited (and similar sites) have had a bit of a head start because their databases were built around easily obtainable records of schools in the UK to get them started.

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Q. Is the site doing anything else to keep it going until it builds its ultimate database of British companies

A. It is aiming at being a portal for all work related issues - and it has some great information and advice on all topics related to employment - both for employees and employers alike.

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Q. What type of information

A. Besides its "Workers World" facility, which allows you to contact your old workmates, it has the following services:

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* Agencies - a directory of all the employment agencies in the UK.

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* Applications - offers help and advice on completing application forms, compiling CVs and writing covering letters.

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* Changing careers - offers practical advice on resigning, retraining and changing careers.

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* Forums - like a chat room where you can exchange your views on employment issues, and seek help from other people.

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* HR Issues - informative data for employers and employees on all aspects of HR from appraisals and job descriptions to sick pay and employment law.

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* Job Hunting - effective tips on finding the job that you want.

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* Job Search - a list of current job vacancies posted by UK employers, in lots of different sectors.

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Each of these sections goes into great detail on how to go about improving or changing your work environment if you are unhappy with your current situation, or it offers advice and information on employment law.

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For example, its HR section goes into great detail on lots of topics - and explains what they are to those of use who don't know - like contracts of employment; written statements of employment; the minimum wage; discrimination at work; health and safety at work; the working time regulations (WTR) and stakeholder pensions.

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Q. Does it help you with interviews

A. Yes this site offers information on how to prepare for an interview and build up your confidence beforehand; goes over common questions and how to give good answers; and even tackles some of the FAQ's asked at interviews e.g. "where do you see yourself in five years time " or "what are your strengths and weaknesses " Every one hates these questions when they are asked, and you never know if you've answered them correctly - so now you can find out.

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Q. Does the P45 Club offer any advice on setting up on your own

A. Yes, it has lots of information on becoming a freelancer; a contractor; on self employed work in general and what it entails (e.g. how to calculate your tax); working from home and even working abroad.

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Q. How will the site make its money

A. Through advertising and from subscribers signing on to find their old workmates, and ultimately their email addresses.

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By Karen Anderson